Question

Hammond Inc. has analyzed the setup time on its computer-controlled lathe. The setup requires changing the type of fixture that holds a part. The average setup time has been 135 minutes, consisting of the following steps: Turn off machine and remove fixture from lathe ......10 minutesGo to tool room with fixture ............. 15Record replacement of fixture to tool room ........18Return to lathe ................... 20Clean lathe ................... 15Return to tool room ................. 20Record withdrawal of new fixture from tool room ..... 12Return to lathe ................... 15Install new fixture and turn on machine ......... 10 Total setup time .................. 135 minutesa. Why should management be concerned about improving setup time? b. What do you recommend to Hammond Inc. for improving setup time? c. How much time would be required for a setup, using your suggestion in (b)?